Space Frames: Definition, Types, Materials and Primary Benefits

Because of their aesthetics and structural potential, the space frames have become one of the most popular options used for providing roofs to large span construction spaces. Today, we will dive deeper into what a spaceframe is.

In the last few decades, the world of architecture has witnessed a growing interest in space frame structures around the globe. The use of spaceframes has become more popular over the years as more people recognize their geometric aesthetic and structural potential.

What is a Spaceframe?

A space frame, also known as 3D truss or space structure, is a lightweight, truss-like structure that is designed using a rigidity matrix. It is constructed from interlocking struts in a geometric pattern. The simplest spatial unit of spaceframe structure is a tetrahedron which has six members and four joints. This three-dimensional truss is composed of linear elements subject only to tension or compression.

Though they seem to look less strong than roof rafters that need massive interior supports at first look, space frames are quite robust and sturdy. They can be able to hold short, medium, and long-span roofs and canopies with even just the minimum interior supports. They are designed with a well-arranged three-dimensional assembly of linear elements that enable them to support heavy roofing. The idea behind this is to equally transfer the weight throughout the geometric matrix, making it stronger and able to lift heavier loads than traditional construction materials.

Materials used for space frames

Spaceframes can be made from either timber or steel.

· Timber - Used widely during the 19th century. However, as its maintenance level becomes very high, timber is rarely used nowadays.

· Steel - This material is mostly used these days not only because it is lightweight, but also because of its strength and beauty. Space frames made with steel can sustain more weight. The steel spaceframes need to be properly maintained, though, to ensure its longevity.

Types of Spaceframes

The types of spaceframes are further categorized into three main classifications:

· Curvature classification - this includes space plane covers, barrel vaults, and spherical domes.

· Classification by the arrangement of its elements- this includes a single layer grid, double layer grid, and triple-layer grid.

· Classification by structures – like the pleated metallic structures -hanging covers and pneumatic structures.

Uses of Spaceframes

In architecture and engineering, spaceframes are used on sturdy roofs to large-span structures. They are often featured in modern building construction. You can commonly see them on spacious assembly halls, skylights, exhibition pavilion, airplane hangars, sports stadiums, airport terminal structures, auditoriums, factories, swimming pools, fair houses, shopping centers and malls, mosques, atriums, warehouses, and other large industrial and commercial structures.

Spaceframe Benefits

Architects and engineers have been looking for new building techniques, structural forms, and construction materials that can accommodate large areas without having to use obstructing massive supports. The advent of spaceframes has provided the right solution to the problem. Not only that, but spaceframes also offers other amazing benefits.

They are robust, easier, and faster to build, lightweight, sustainable, and environmentally friendly, cost-saving, and aesthetically pleasing.

· Robust – A space frame is robust because of the inherent rigidity of the triangle. It forms a very thick, strong, flexible structural fabric which can be bent to different shapes and can also be used horizontally. Apart from that, spaceframes are mostly constructed with steel materials that have gone through a high-quality controlled fabrication process.

· Aesthetically Pleasing - Spaceframes are aesthetically pleasing. This is one of the main reasons why they are commonly used in modern structural buildings. The spaceframe’s open latticework web of lightweight tubular diagonals does not only contribute to its strength but also its aesthetics.

· Easier And Faster to Build- The materials used for space frames are mass-produced and pre-fabricated inside the manufacturing plant. Their components are also pre-cut into standard shapes and sizes. The designs are mostly pre-made by the manufacturers. The materials only need to be assembled or erected on the site. This eliminates the need to manually measure and cut the parts on-site anymore, allowing easier and faster construction than other similar options.

· Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly - The steel used to build the spaceframes is made from recycled materials. It can also be recycled once again at the end of its lifespan.

· Lightweight – Spaceframes are mostly made of lightweight steel. As compared to its heavier counterparts, steel is more lightweight. Most steel-made spaceframes are also designed in a way that they require only less number of steels.

These benefits tell how economical and advantageous a structural space frame is in providing roofs to large span construction spaces.